Innovation in School

As part of the TRACE project dissemination activities, an educational programme was developed for lower secondary school students at the Istituto Maria Ausiliatrice Salesiani in Bologna, focusing on medicinal and aromatic plants (MAPs), sustainability, and artificial intelligence applied to agriculture.

The programme consisted of a one-hour introductory session followed by four practical workshops lasting 1.5 hours each. Its main objective was to introduce students to the world of MAPs and the innovative technologies currently used in agriculture. During the introductory session, topics included the role of plants in everyday life, the cultivation of medicinal species, and the use of artificial intelligence to support more efficient and sustainable farming systems.

The practical activities on MAPs directly engaged students in the observation and sensory exploration of various aromatic and wild species. Students were able to touch, observe, and identify the scents and characteristics of different plants while learning about their uses, properties, and interesting facts. Each student then produced their own MAP cutting from species such as thyme, sage, and lavender, gaining hands-on experience with vegetative propagation techniques and monitoring the development of the new plant through dedicated observation sheets.

The activities focused on artificial intelligence and sensor technologies introduced students to the principles of smart farming. Using two representative pots containing rosemary and basil, students installed soil moisture and light sensors based on Arduino technology and built a simple automated system capable of watering the plants when needed and activating a light source under low-light conditions.

This experience enabled students to understand in a practical way how data, sensors, and automation can support plant growth, reduce resource waste, and improve crop management. The activities also encouraged scientific curiosity, active participation, and greater awareness of the connection between nature, innovation, and sustainability, which are key themes of the TRACE project.